Reg was the son of Reginald O. Mullen Sr. and Lucille Person Mullen, who preceded him in death. He graduated from Spring Hope High School and obtained his B.S. in business administration from East Carolina University. It was at ECU he met and later married his wife, Donna. He served his country in the Army National Guard, Troop D, 30th Aviation Battalion, Raleigh/Durham Airport, where he became the head of the cook section. In later life, he was adjutant of the local Hubert Vester American Legion Post 91. He was the owner/operator of R.O. Mullen and Co., General Merchandise/Farm Supply in Spring Hope, which was previously owned and operated by his father. It was a well-known business in town for almost 60 years.

Reg’s store was a town landing place for locals who came in for not only food, merchandise and farm supplies, but also for stories, advice, local and national news gathering, sports commentary, how-tos and also for a bit of his wisdom mixed in. Reg was a kind, intelligent man who had many friends. Reg was a member of First Baptist Church in Spring Hope and served his church on many committees. He served his community in the Spring Hope Jaycees, as a board member of the Spring Hope Recreation Department and a member of the Spring Hope Chamber of Commerce and recently served on the town Board of Adjustment. For many years, he served as the local voter registrar. Reg loved sports, especially baseball and football. He spent numerous years coaching neighborhood young men, including his two sons, in baseball and flag football.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife, Donna Lloyd Mullen; sons, Reginald “Reggie” Mullen III (Jessica) and Dr. James E. “Jim” Mullen (Jessica); and grandchildren, Rhett and Blythe Mullen and Eli and Reese Mullen. A true lover of animals, he also leaves his cherished store cat, Rosie.

A celebration of his life was held from 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24 at Cornerstone Funeral Home in Nashville. A private funeral service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Spring Hope, or to the SPCA.

Cornerstone Funeral Home, 1052 S. First St., Nashville, is honored to be caring for the Mullen family. Words of comfort may be shared at www.cornerstonefuneralhomeandcremations.com.